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What's Bucs' Angry Secret To NFL Playoff Push?

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Adam Schultz | Last updated Jan 2, 2025 10:56 AM ET

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers came out breathing fire in the 48-14 win over the Carolina Panthers, with the loss to the Dallas Cowboys a week prior being the catalyst for the demolition.

With the Buccaneers controlling their playoff destiny prior to the Cowboys loss, Todd Bowles' team then faced a must-win game against the Panthers to keep their playoff hopes alive.

And they came out and landed a knockout punch early on and set the tone for a dominating win at Raymond James Stadium.

For receiver Mike Evans, the loss to Dallas was a powerful motivator for the Buccaneers to come out and blow the doors off the Panthers in stunning fashion.

"When you lose games, it shifts your focus back to what it should be," Evans said. "Being very detailed, very physical. We came out here very angry, and that's what it's going to take."

"Angry'' as the secret reveal? Bucs fans will take it.

The Buccaneers are now back in first place in the NFC South after the Atlanta Falcons lost to the Washington Commanders, meaning Bowles' side has an easy equation heading into week 18 - win and you're in the playoffs.

Facing a New Orleans Saints team that has lost four of its last five games, the Buccaneers appear to be in good enough form to continue their winning ways.

But nothing can be taken for granted, and Tampa Bay must come out in the same manner it did against the Panthers and end the Saints' faint hopes of an upset early on.

There is a lot at stake in Week 18, and the Buccaneers will have a singular focus against the Saints - win by any means necessary.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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